Located in the southeastern corner of Missouri, Branson welcomes millions of visitors each year—including thousands of school groups—who come to the area to enjoy the beauty of the Ozark Mountains and the dizzying array of world-class entertainment.
“A key factor to Branson’s popularity with groups is the wide variety of live entertainment available throughout the year,” says Lenni Neimeyer, director of group sales for the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Our stages showcase the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, pop, country, gospel, bluegrass, rock ’n’ roll and patriotic music, plus comedy, magic, dance and Broadway-style productions full of special effects, dazzling costumes and so much more.”
She says student groups also have the advantage of not only seeing a live show but also getting to take part in performance opportunities and workshops led by industry professionals. One example is the Hughes Brothers Song and Stage Boot Camp.
This five-day intensive program, now in its fourth year, takes place the third week in June. Across the week, students hear firsthand from show business professionals about myriad aspects of the entertainment world. Experts from New York to Los Angeles talk about how they got where they are and offer advice on ways to break into the business. There also are on-stage sessions in which veteran singers and dancers help students with performance-specific techniques. At the conclusion of the week, participants get to take part in a live Hughes Brothers show and perform alongside the pros.
School groups taking a break from the rigors of performing can enjoy some fun at Fritz’s Adventure and Aerodium. This 80,000-square-foot attraction is abuzz with activities that range from a four-story ropes course and climbing walls and underground tunnels to multi-story slides and a laser room.
In addition to zipping, climbing, rappelling, sliding and jumping, students can try Fritz’s flying adventure. The outdoor Aerodium utilizes wind-tunnel technology, which allows participants to experience the sensation of skydiving much closer to the ground. Trained instructors are there to help every step of the way, including being with the students when they lift off from the trampoline and take flight.
For more information, contact Lenni Neimeyer of the Branson/Lakes Area Convention and Visitors Bureau or go to explorebranson.com.
Top Educational Attractions
Titanic Museum Attraction
Veterans Memorial Museum and College of the Ozarks
Top Recreational Attractions
Dogwood Canyon
Silver Dollar City
Top Local Festivals
Festival of Wonder (April)
Branson Music Fest (April)
Top photo: Hughes Brothers performance
Photo by Branson CVB
